The 10 Best Medical Alert Systems of 2023: Stay Safe and Independent at Home
Data released by the CDC shows that millions of people over the age of 65 fall each year, and 800,000 are hospitalized for injuries. What’s more, according to the same fact sheet, one fall doubles the likelihood of falling again.
Your independence is precious. You don’t have to give it up just because you’re older. You just need a reliable way to get help quickly and easily when you need it.
A medical alert system gives you unlimited support anytime, anywhere, whether you’re home alone or having an emergency while running errands. But with so many different systems on the market, how do you know which one is right for you and your lifestyle? We’ve tested and compared the best medical alert systems to help you stay safe and independent at home and spend more time with your loved ones.
Our Top 10 Best Medical Alert Systems for 2023:
- Medical Guardian: The best medical alert system
- ADT Health: The best for a fixed monthly price
- MobileHelp: The best for its telemedicine capabilities
- One Call Alert: Ideal for households using the same system
- Life Alert: Ideal for accessing personal dispatch centers
- UnaliWear: The best smartwatch you can find this fall
- LifeFone: Ideal for daily check-in call subscriptions
- Lively: Ideal for a wide range of devices for seniors
- Medical Alert: Ideal for its user-friendly systems
- Lifeline: Ideal for its accurate fall detection
Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best Medical Alert Systems
To compare the best medical alert systems, we prioritize the most reputable and established medical alert companies. These providers are known for their expertise, technology, and ability to provide fast, reliable care through highly trained staff. We also used seven questions to rate each of the 10 medical alert system companies:
- How easy is the device to use?
- How affordable is the service?
- How reliable is the support team?
- Does the system include fall detection?
- Is the device comfortable and portable?
- What is its scope?
- What technologies make it better than others on the market?
The top 10 best medical alert systems
Medical Guardian has been on the market for 16 years and has over 300,000 users. Its medical alert systems provide 24/7 monitoring at home and on the go, while its versatile devices can connect to landline, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks.
Chris McDermott, a registered nurse and certified life care planner at Intercoastal Consulting & Life Care Planning (ICLCP), says the company’s connectivity options offer consumers “the best of both worlds,” while other devices are limited to landline or cell phone service. He adds, “This service also uses Verizon for its cellular network, which can be helpful if you’re traveling to a location with limited connectivity and have an emergency.”
Medical Guardian offers monthly, quarterly, or annual subscription options, and additional services like fall detection for an additional fee. There are no long-term contracts required, and the initial subscription fee includes the price of the device.
Why we chose Medical Guardian: Medical Guardian offers features like automatic emergency response, fall detection, and an extended signal range of up to 1,500 feet (425 meters). Plus, its certified Diamond Monitoring Center is available 24/7 and notifies your designated contact in both emergency and non-emergency situations, regardless of the subscription you choose.
Our experience: We found the Medical Guardian product questionnaire to be an accurate guide to which device best suits our needs. After answering three questions, the site recommended that we try the MGMini Lite, which is perfect for seniors with mobility issues. However, we didn’t like that it asked for our contact information before sharing this offer.
Read the Medical Guardian review
PROS
- No contracts or hidden fees
- Offers automatic emergency response in the event of a fall.
- Long battery life of up to 168 hours
CONS
- No free trials
- Some features require additional purchases
ADT Health has access to multiple monitoring centers across the U.S. and protects nearly six million users. It offers three service levels, each with flexible payment options and a lifetime fixed price guarantee. ADT also provides access to additional services, such as home temperature monitoring and 24/7 support.
Monitoring specialists are trained to help seniors in a variety of emergencies, including health issues. These specialists assess the situation, contact and dispatch emergency personnel to the home, and notify family members if necessary.
Helen Anderson, nursing care manager at Hello Care in Portland, Oregon, recounts how ADT’s temperature detection feature once alerted them that a senior’s home was unusually hot during the summer. They were able to enter the home, only to find that the air conditioning switch had blown. She adds: “The risks for seniors living alone are unpredictable, so a system that detects falls and extreme temperatures is a great option.”
Why we chose ADT Health: This service offers a free waterproof wall-mounted button for added protection in the shower. ADT also includes two-way communication in every package to ensure customers can get help when they need it.
Our experience: We liked that ADT Health delivered and activated the medical alert system at no extra charge. We also appreciated that their website clearly explains who each service level is for; for example, it states that the basic medical alert system is suitable for people who stay at home most of the time and have a landline phone.
PROS
- Guaranteed no monthly costs increase.
- Free delivery, activation, and hardware.
- Offers a six-month money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Basic devices have limited range.
- There is no daily check-in service.
With MobileHelp, you can choose between a home or mobile system, or a package that combines both. These medical alert systems are ideal for seniors who spend most of their time at home, and for active older adults who like to be outdoors.
MobileHelp devices include several valuable add-on services, such as MD Live and Mobile Vitals, that help seniors manage their health and maintain their independence. For example, MD Live offers telemedicine services that allow you to connect with a qualified doctor via video call.
John Buchanan, a registered nurse and former emergency physician at St. Francis Hospital, recalls caring for an elderly woman who fell and hit her head. She lived alone with the MobileHelp system and spoke only Spanish. Fortunately, the monitoring representative at the base unit was able to translate. He informed John’s team that the patient was on blood thinners, so they took him to the hospital as a precaution. Further tests showed that he was bleeding internally. John says, “Without an interpreter, we might not have known his medical history or what medications he was taking.”
Why we chose MobileHelp: This provider offers a 30-day free trial. When you sign up, you don’t have to sign a contract or pay for equipment (for six of the eight products they offer).
Our experience: We appreciate MobileHelp’s wide range of additional services. We also appreciate their fast response times (on average 1 to 15 seconds), which is a testament to their fast and attentive service.
PROS
- Fast response time (average 1 to 15 seconds)
- 30-day free trial
- Access to telemedicine features
CONS
- Processing fees apply for some systems
- A fee may be charged for lost or damaged equipment
One Call Alert offers a wide range of affordable, easy-to-install home and mobile devices. The Dual Mobile plan offers users a great deal by combining two mobile devices for the price of one ($44.95 per month).
Their mobile devices are waterproof, have built-in GPS tracking, and two-way communication. Additional services are available for an additional fee, such as medication reminders, fall detection, and loss or damage protection. There are no long-term contracts, up-front activation fees, or equipment fees. Some plans offer free shipping and a free safe.
Why We Chose One Call Alert: One Call Alert’s base devices have a backup battery that can last up to 32 hours in the event of a power outage. Their emergency response centers are also available 24/7 in locations across the U.S.
Our Experience: Our One Call Alert device was very easy to set up; it worked right away. We appreciated that the service allowed us to test it out for no additional fee.
PROS
- Competitive starting price
- Ideal for two people using the same system
- Easy to install
CONS
- Not guaranteed to increase fees
- No warranty
Life Alert is known for its famous “Help! I’ve fallen and can’t get up” TV commercial. They have been offering remote and on-site monitoring since the 1980s.
Their customer service connects you with a support consultant who will guide you through the installation process. The consultant will also show you how to use the system and how to optimize it to suit your needs.
Only one package is available (without additional features), which includes a home base station with a hanging button, a portable “HELP” button, and a waterproof shower button. This service offers a fixed price guarantee, free shipping, and a lifetime warranty, but you have to sign a three-year contract and pay a $200 activation fee to access their systems.
Why we chose Life Alert: Life Alert offers reliable service and fast response times through its on-site dispatch center. Its mobile devices offer nationwide GPS tracking, and their batteries don’t need charging; they only need to be replaced every 10 years.
Our experience: We found the Life Alert wearables to be lightweight and comfortable. We also liked that security operators could hear intruders through the base station’s audio monitoring speakers.
PROS
- The devices come with a lifetime warranty.
- The mobile button has an industry-leading 10-year battery life.
- Speakers with audio monitoring capabilities.
CONS
- Requires an activation fee and a three-year contract.
- It doesn’t have automatic fall detection.
The UnaliWear Kanega Watch is a smartwatch-like device that connects to cellular and Wi-Fi networks. It offers 24/7 monitoring, fall detection, GPS tracking, and medication reminders. This watch is more expensive than other devices, but it’s quick and easy to set up.
UnaliWear’s emergency response center is Five Diamond certified, and operators are available 24/7. They have access to the customer’s medical information that you provide when you set up the device, so they know exactly what kind of help to send.
Why we chose UnaliWear: The Kanega watch is water-resistant and has four easily replaceable rechargeable batteries. This means you never have to take it off, even to take a shower. You can activate it with a button or with a voice command, and it has a built-in fall detection feature. GPS tracking makes it easy for emergency services to pinpoint your location when you call for help.
Our experience: We like the understated elegance of the Kanega watch. We also like that you can choose from three accent colors: champagne gold, black, and rose gold.
PROS
- Customer service included
- Built-in fall detection
- Accurate location tracking
CONS
- More expensive than other services
- No app
LifeFone has been around for over 50 years. Its plans start at $29.95, and a fall detection system is available for an additional $5 per month. The initial subscription price includes the cost of the equipment.
This medical alert system includes home devices that connect to landlines within a 400-meter radius. It also sells wearable pendants with cellular options, as well as a mobile app for caregivers that allows them to log a user’s daily step goal, view their current location, and check their device’s battery level.
The company offers a fixed price, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. Its referral program rewards you with a month of free service for every new customer you refer.
Why we chose LifeFone: LifeFone doesn’t charge activation or processing fees. It lets customers subscribe to daily check-in calls and medication reminders, and its VIPx wearables have a 10-day battery life.
Our experience: We found the LifeFone system to be well-designed and easy to use, with simple and effective features. We also appreciated that the company offered a 30-day trial and told us we could cancel at any time without penalty.
PROS
- Fixed price guarantee
- Daily check-ins
- Long-range home devices
CONS
- Home systems without fall detection
- Add-ons are expensive
Lively systems are ideal for active seniors who spend a lot of time outside the home. Their devices, ranging from flip phones and smartphones to wearable medical alarms, offer portability and cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity options.
You can also install Lively services on any Apple Watch or Alexa device. However, their devices have large screens, powerful speakers, and voice dictation, making them exceptionally convenient for seniors. You won’t have to sign up for a long-term contract, and the monthly price depends on the service you choose.
Why we chose Lively: Lively offers several customizable packages to suit different needs. For example, the Premium package allows you to connect with on-call nurses and qualified doctors without prior registration. This telemedicine feature makes the system an attractive option for those who need professional medical advice quickly.
Our experience: We liked that Lively allows customers to use more than one device. We also appreciated the lack of long-term contracts and cancellation fees.
PROS
- Devices designed for seniors
- Customizable health and safety packages
- No long-term contracts or cancellation fees
CONS
- Activation fees
- No standard phone option
Medical Alert offers a home system with a base unit and a waterproof help button that can be worn around the neck or wrist. There’s also a wearable option with GPS and a help button that gives you more freedom to move around your home.
Medical Alert plans include access to a free mobile app that connects you directly to customer support, pinpoints your location, and checks your device’s battery status. The company boasts industry-leading response times and 24/7 monitoring with trained response coordinators. Plus, there are no upfront fees for the device, setup, or activation.
Why we chose Medical Alert: You can choose a bundled option that integrates your home and mobile systems. One device performs all the necessary functions, making it easy to set up and use your systems.
Our experience: We found Medical Alert’s integrated devices very convenient. We also appreciated that the help buttons were lightweight and waterproof. However, we did notice that the mobile devices required daily charging.
PROS
- Easy-to-use system
- Lightweight, waterproof help buttons
- No initial activation fees
CONS
- No medication reminders
- Mobile device must be charged daily
Lifeline (formerly Phillips Lifeline) has response centers across the United States and Canada, staffed by a team of specially trained emergency operators who are available 24/7. This provider also offers its customers the Lifeline Cares app, which notifies families of any important information or updates about the user’s care. The app includes mobile tools that allow caregivers and family members to check in at any time, even if it’s not an emergency. While prices start at $29.95 per month, you’ll have to pay additional activation and setup fees up front.
Why we chose Lifeline: Lifeline’s AutoAlert technology uses what it calls a “fine-tuned algorithm” to improve the accuracy of its fall detection software. According to the system’s website, this safety technology for seniors can detect up to 95% of all falls.
Our experience: We liked that Lifeline offers users a variety of optional accessories, such as a voice extender, medication dispenser, and safe. We also appreciated the ability to have our device installed by a technician.
PROS
- Free Lifeline Cares app
- Average response time of 20 seconds
- Some plans include accurate fall detection
CONS
- Cancellation fees
- Initial activation and installation costs
Comparing the Best Medical Alert Systems: A Comprehensive Guide
Check out the comparison chart below to compare prices and features of different services and find the medical alert system that fits your lifestyle. This chart includes information about each system’s monitoring capabilities, device range, battery life, initial monthly fees, the cost of additional fall detection (if available), and whether the company offers trials. Pay attention to the type of connection each system uses; if the device connects to the AT&T or Verizon cellular networks, you don’t have to subscribe to that network, but make sure you’re in a network coverage area.
What is a Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system is a type of alarm designed to help you get help quickly in an emergency. People buy these devices for themselves or a family member for a variety of reasons, such as living alone, being at risk for falls, or having certain medical conditions that may require unexpected medical attention.
Devices offer different types of protection, including home and on-the-go monitoring, and the features and cost of plans vary depending on your needs and lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Medical Alert System for Your Needs
There are two types of medical alert systems: home systems and on-the-go systems. Home alert systems typically consist of a base station and a handheld button that can be pressed when help is needed. These connect to monitoring centers via landlines or mobile phones.
When the help button is activated, the device contacts a trained operator, who in turn contacts emergency services or a designated family member, depending on the situation. Home devices are suitable for seniors who are home alone most of the time or who only leave the house with caregivers.
On-the-go systems, on the other hand, give users more freedom to leave the house unattended. These devices work as long as they are charged and connected to a mobile network.
They also have a hand-held button that connects to a qualified operator and, when activated, assists in dispatching. They don’t require a base station, so you can go about your day, stay active, and feel safe at home or on the go.
How to Choose the Right Medical Alert System for Your Needs
Choosing a medical alert system can be overwhelming; each plan comes with a variety of devices and features. Check out the range of devices in your home, real-time connectivity to a monitoring center, automatic fall detection, and cost.
Before choosing one, consider your lifestyle and level of mobility, the size of your home, your budget, and health risks, such as falling or getting lost when you’re alone outside. This will help you decide which system is right for your needs: a home or mobile system.
While an in-home system works best for older adults who don’t go outside often, a mobile device is more suited for seniors who go out on their own to run errands or tend to their gardens.
How much does a medical alert system cost?
A medical alert system can cost between $20 and $50 per month to start, but this generally excludes taxes and additional fees, such as equipment activation and shipping.
Once you decide on the type of system you want to purchase and how many extra features you want to add, you can determine your monthly cost. However, watch out for hidden fees like equipment repair and cancellation charges.
Health insurance also usually does not cover medical alert systems, but check with your insurance provider to confirm this. You can contact them by calling the number on the back of your insurance card or through their website.
Key Features of Medical Alert Systems
There are several different features to consider when deciding which medical alert system is suitable for you. These include connectivity options, pinpoint location detection, two-way communication functionality, and medication reminders.
Here are a few essential features when choosing a medical alert system.
24/7 Monitoring Services
Your medical alert system should be monitored 24/7 by well-trained, professional operators certified by industry-standard organizations like the Security Industry Association (SIA) or the CSA Group. Life Alert, for example, has a network of Five Diamond certified monitoring centers throughout the US. Its operators spend up to a year training and learning about medical conditions, personal safety, and Life Alert equipment.
Multilingual support
If English is not your native language, find a monitoring service that employs operators fluent in several languages or has access to translation services. For example, Lively’s response agents can provide translation support in over 100 languages. Additionally, verify where the monitoring centers are located. If they’re outside the US or Canada, the operators may not be native English speakers.
Landline or Cellular Connection Options
Most companies offer systems that connect to a landline or cellular network. These mainly rely on AT&T or Verizon networks to connect your equipment to their monitoring systems. In most cases, however, you won’t have to sign contracts with these providers to receive monitoring. Your device will work as long as you live or travel in an area where these networks are available.
GPS Location Tracking
When you purchase an on-the-go system, you may have the option to add GPS location tracking to your service. Medical alert pendants, like the Kanega Watch from UnaliWear, connect through WiFi, cellular networks, and GPS signals to track your location. In an emergency, the monitoring center can pinpoint your location and direct emergency services or caregivers your way.
Activity Tracking
Some mobile medical alert systems offer activity tracking that can record your daily step count, heart rate, oxygen levels, and even how well you sleep. For example, MobileHelp’s activity tracking (which includes fall detection) can help you stay healthy by allowing you to monitor your daily activities for an extra $6 a month. This feature ensures you maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. It can also notify a designated family member if you’re inactive for an extended period.
Additional Help Buttons Placed Strategically
Extra emergency buttons can be mounted on walls or placed where accidents often occur, like bathrooms or staircases. They can also be used on bedside tables. Medical Guardian, for example, offers two wall-mountable buttons; one you can push and another that’s voice-activated.
Water Resistance for Increased Durability
A water-resistant device can’t be completely submerged in water, but you can wear it in the shower or mount it on the wall above the bathtub. Please fix the double space between “Alert’s” and “devices”.
Two-Way Communication Capability
Not all medical alert systems let you communicate directly with an operator when you need assistance. Confirm if your chosen system offers this feature before buying in. With some systems, like LifeFone, you can connect to an operator who speaks with you, assesses your situation and calls for help if needed. Other systems will call 911 or your designated emergency contact directly once you press the help button.
Medication Reminders and/or Dispensers
Track pills and when you take them with a medication reminder. This feature is convenient for individuals who live alone and need to keep up with several prescriptions daily.
It notifies you when it’s time to take your pills, which improves medication adherence and “can affect patient health positively.” Lifeline offers a programmable medication dispenser to measure and dispense the correct dosages as your doctor prescribes.
Caregiver Web Portal or Mobile App
Several medical alert companies offer a web portal or mobile app, some free and others at an additional cost. These apps and portals connect you and your family with your caregiver to help you better coordinate your care. The free Medical Alert app, for example, uses GPS technology to determine your location in an emergency.
Exploring Different Types of Medical Alert Systems
The two main types of medical alert systems, namely home and mobile, may or may not be monitored. A monitored system allows you to communicate with an on-call operator, while an unmonitored system notifies your family member or emergency services directly without contacting you.
In-Home Devices
A home medical alert system is a base station that connects to a landline or cellular network. It usually comes with a help button to wear it around the neck or wrist. You can also get optional accessories, including voice extenders and wall buttons. However, with a home system, the portable device only works if it is within range of the base station, making it the right choice for people who spend most of their time at home.
Mobile Devices
Mobile alert systems connect to a cellular network through several cell phone companies. These devices are usually portable and have a button that allows you to call for help when you are away from home. Many of them come with GPS tracking features, so the emergency call center or designated contact person knows exactly where you are when you call for help. The devices are ideal for active seniors who spend a lot of time away from home.
Understanding Medical Alert System Contracts, Warranties, and Policies
Some medical alert companies do not require you to enter into a contract and only charge a monthly fee as long as you use their services. However, most providers ask you to sign a contract. Make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to before you sign, especially since these companies will likely charge a cancellation fee if service is interrupted.
In addition to cancellation fees, you should also read your device’s warranty provisions to find out if there are hidden fees for replacing a lost or damaged device. Your home insurance policy may also cover your medical alert system in case of theft or damage. But you’ll need to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Insurance Coverage for Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems can be expensive, so having insurance coverage to help with expenses can alleviate some of the financial pressure. Unfortunately, most insurers, such as Medicaid, do not cover the cost of medical alert systems. These plans may vary by state, so contact your insurance provider to confirm whether they offer full or partial coverage, if applicable.
On the other hand, Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, may cover at least part of the cost. If you are a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, you may also be eligible to receive coverage through VA benefits. Check with your VA insurance provider to confirm if you can get reimbursed for a medical alert system.
Emergency Medical Alert Systems with Fall Detection
Fall detection can sense when you’ve collapsed by monitoring your movement through sensors on your wearable device. When you fail, the device automatically alerts the monitoring center, notifying a family member or emergency services on your behalf. There is usually an additional fee of at least $10 a month for automatic fall detection. Still, individuals living alone and at high risk of falling should consider getting a medical alert system with this feature
Wearable Medical Alert Devices: Convenience and Safety
The main types of wearable medical alert devices include pendants, bracelets, wristbands, and smartwatches. These devices ensure you have access to emergency assistance wherever you go. They’re usually water resistant and can be worn in the shower and at night while sleeping. Some medical alert companies offer additional services with wearable technology like medication reminders and activity trackers—some can even measure the quality of your sleep. Also, because you’ll be wearing the device almost all the time, you need to choose one that is comfortable and easy to use.
Medical Alert Systems Tailored for Seniors
Medical alert systems create elderly care solutions that let seniors enjoy their independence in a safe environment for longer. In-home and mobile medical alert systems can assure older adults that help is just a push of a button away if they fall or experience an emergency.
When older adults live alone, they often need home health monitoring for medical and non-medical emergencies, such as experiencing shortness of breath or feeling unsafe. Medical alert systems can reduce the risk and fear of living alone by ensuring that elderly assistance is available whenever needed.
Additional Medical Alert Systems We Reviewed
Aside from the medical alert systems covered here, we reviewed other providers that are also worth exploring out:
LifeStation – Best for personalized emergency action plans
HelpButton – Best for active older adults who go on regular hikes and like to swim
Constant Companion – Best for caregivers and senior assisted-living facilities
Aloe Care Health – Best for access to a searchable online knowledge base
GetSafe – Best for voice-activated emergency buttons for seniors
Further Exploration and Resources
Allergy Safety: How Medical Alerts Help
9 Ways a Smartwatch Can Improve Health
What Are Unmonitored Medical Alert Systems, and Should You Get One?
Natural Intelligence does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or your local emergency number immediately.
